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Devotionals Daiily: A Year with Jesus - July 17

Heaven is a literal place. It is not an imaginary world or fantasy land in which to dwell.

God created Heaven with its vast array of authentic characteristics (Genesis 2:1). Jesus did not ascend to a lofty dreamworld following His resurrection, but returned to sit at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19). Abraham didn’t cling to the promise of living in a state of mind; he looked forward to “the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). The Old Testament heroes of faith longed for a literal place—“a better country—a heavenly one . . . for [God] has pre­pared a city for them” (v. 16). Jesus told His disciples, “You know the way to the place where I am going” (John 14:4). That place is Heaven and Christ our Savior is there now, preparing for our arrival.

Having confidence that Heaven is a literal place is important, but even more so is that we know how to get there. The only GPS that can give you flawless direction is the Gospel Plan of Salvation. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

By nature, people are bent toward home. Far better than any dream you can imagine is the supernatural transformation that will take place for all of God’s people in His heavenly home. I hope you’ll be there.

Parents look in a lot of different places for guidance in how to influence their kids for Christ – church, school, or close relatives. These can all be helpful, but there's a better place to begin…you. Raising Your Kids to Love the Lord and Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, & Laughter share practical tips from Dave's experience as a father of three and pastor to add faith and fun to the heart of your family.